Yamaha MCR-730 and MCR-230 First Look

Yamaha introduced two new micro component systems that focus on new technologies and lifestyle design elements. The new MCR-730 ($499.95 MSRP) includes an integrated DVD player and full HD 1080p support for a complete audio/video solution, while the MCR-230 ($349.95 MSRP) is a sophisticated audio system complete with a built-in iPod dock, USB input, and a high-quality CD player. Each system includes a pair of high-quality two-way speakers that provide excellent bass through a low-height, large depth cabinet design.

The MCR-730 has a single 1080p-compatible HDMI output and is a DivX Ultra Certified device, delivering unrestricted access to the wider range of video sources. It can play all DivX content, including DivX 6, and supports the format's media features such as interactive menus, subtitles and alternate audio tracks. The unit is also fully compatible with discs containing MP3 and WMA audio files, WMV and DivX video files, and JPEG image files.

The MCR-730 is given Yamaha's "PianoCraft" designation, and incorporates high quality components, including a high-precision DAC, stable power supply and a low-noise Direct PLL IF Count Synthesizer tuning system. The system's amplifier section delivers a full 60 watts of power to the two-way bass reflex speakers, each of which includes a 4-inch cone woofer and 1-inch dome tweeter, and can also support an optional subwoofer. The speakers are almost ridiculously deep (nearly 12-inches) and may not fit onto some shelves. The advantage, of course, is that they claim a frequency response of down to 10Hz with -3db. 10Hz? We may have to hear (and measure) this to believe it.

While the MCR-230 may be compact in its styling, it is designed to sound like a much bigger and more sophisticated system. The receiver/CD player uses the same digital amplifier as Yamaha's high-performance models, and incorporates the same high precision DAC and large, stable power supply as the company's renowned CD players. Delivering 40 watts of power, the integrated amplifier in the MCR-230 drives the system's speakers and a subwoofer (optional) can be connected via line level.

The unit also has a Direct PLL IF Count Synthesizer FM tuning system with 30 automatically programmable presets. Both models offer iPod integration, giving users the ability to enjoy their digital music collections. The MCR-230 features a built-in top-panel iPod dock for direct docking, and its remote control operates the same way as an iPod's controls for total ease-of-use. For the MCR-730, iPod docking is achieved with the addition of Yamaha's optional YDS-11 Universal iPod Dock. Additionally, the MCR-730 is compatible with Yamaha's YBA-10 Universal Bluetooth Wireless Audio Receiver.

The MCR-730 has a front panel mini-jack for connecting portable audio players, and both units (MCR-730 and MCR-230) have USB ports for connecting flash drives for MP3 and WMA audio file playback. USB audio file list information including artist name, album and song title is also displayed on both units.

Esthetically, both the MCR-730's and MCR-230's main units feature a slick black aluminum front panel and knobs. Per Yamaha's VCCS (Vibration Control Cabinet Structure) technology, the wood inside each cabinet is strategically positioned to work in conjunction with a new vibration isolation material to help curb vibrations and deliver music with clarity and power.

For more information please visit www.yamaha.com/hometheater.

Unless otherwise indicated, this is a preview article for the featured product. A formal review may or may not follow in the future.